6 of Melbourne’s Best Kept Secrets

From seasonal night markets to underground sub-Antarctic adventures, discover 6 of Melbourne’s hidden secrets. Who knew these Melbourne attractions had these fun experiences in store? 

 

Secret: English Romance

Take your trip to the Royal Botanic Gardens one step further. Hop in a small wooden boat and go Punting on The Lake; cruise through the serene Ornamental Lake. While you sit back and take in the tranquil surrounds, a dapper punter will tell you all about the Garden’s fascinating history and wild life. There are even high tea packages to wrap up your glamourous day in the gardens.

 

Secret: Awesome Art

You might’ve heard of the Melbourne Museum, but what about the Heide Museum of Modern Art? Just 20 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, this lesser-known museum showcases work from living contemporary artists. The gardens and sculptures outside are great fun for the whole family. And don’t miss the Heide Detective challenge – go looking for clues along mapped trails.

 

Secret: Night Treasures

Sure, Queen Victoria Market is popular year-round, but did you know during summer and winter, this legendary market comes alive at night? On these seasonal Wednesday nights, listen to live music on a balmy evening or chat with friends around a cosy open fire. Be sure to save your bellies for scrumptious treats!

 

Secret: The Only Place to Shark Dive

Feeling brave? The out-of-the-box Shark Dive Xtreme experience at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is also one of the few places in the world where you can interact with sharks… cageless! After an introduction to scuba diving, get safely up close to our Grey Nurse Shark, Blacktip Reef Sharks, Sandbar Whalers, Largetooth Sawfish, MASSIVE rays, Groupers and multiple species of Cod. Learn how surprisingly peaceful these majestic, often-misunderstood sea creatures are. You bet it’ll be unforgettable. Better yet, your ticket includes general admission to the aquarium and access to staff-only areas. If you’re over 14, go on, get your ocean adventure fix here.

 

Secret: Stamp Your Passport

This isn’t your average passport! With SEA LIFE’s Penguin Passport, you don’t have to travel far for an amazing experience. Suit yourself up in the provided snow gear and get a metre, or maybe even centimetres, from proud King penguins and jolly Gentoos. Watch them slipping and sliding all around you. Warning: these cool creatures cause regular belly laughs and melted hearts! Not only will you discover their characterful quirks, but you’ll also be in awe of the state-of-the-art technology used to maintain sub-zero temperatures indoors. Spots go quickly, so book online here to avoid missing out on this extraordinary experience. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some memorable penguin pics!

 

Secret: Ask a Marine Biologist Anything

SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium’s VIP Tour is a two-hour private tour which takes you through 14 themed zones and exclusive behind-the-scenes areas. Plus, you’ll venture out on a glass bottom boat atop a 2.2 million litre Oceanarium with huge sharks swimming around you. All this time, a biologist is by your side. This is your ultimate ticket to exploring a mesmerising underwater wonderland. Whether you’re a budding biologist, an animal-lover or you’re up for a unique, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, become a VIP for a day.